The Best 7 Games for Virtual Team Building

In today's increasingly remote work environment, maintaining team cohesion and morale can be challenging. Virtual team building activities, particularly games, have become essential tools for fostering collaboration, communication, and camaraderie among team members. Here’s a look at some of the best games that can help bring your virtual team closer together.

1. Among Us

"Among Us" has surged in popularity within the virtual gaming sphere, offering a compelling mix of strategy, teamwork, and deception. In this multiplayer game, team members collaborate to complete tasks on a spaceship while identifying impostors among them. The game fosters communication, quick thinking, and teamwork as players discuss and deduce the impostors' identities. Its straightforward mechanics and cross-platform availability make it an excellent choice for virtual team building.

The necessity for constant communication and strategic thinking in "Among Us" helps break down barriers between team members, encouraging open dialogue and cooperation. The game’s engaging nature ensures that team members stay connected and engaged, which can be a significant boost to overall team morale and cohesion.

2. Jackbox Games

Jackbox Games presents a variety of party games ideal for virtual team building. Titles like "Quiplash," "Fibbage," and "Trivia Murder Party" can accommodate large groups, offering inclusive and engaging experiences. These games encourage creativity, humor, and quick thinking. Only the host needs to purchase the game, while other players can join via web browsers, ensuring easy accessibility for all participants.

The diverse range of games available in the Jackbox suite means there is something for everyone, catering to different interests and personality types. This variety helps to engage the whole team, promoting inclusivity and allowing team members to bond over shared laughter and fun.

3. Pictionary (Skribbl.io)

Skribbl.io, an online adaptation of the classic drawing and guessing game Pictionary, offers a fun and interactive way for teams to engage with each other. Players take turns drawing prompts while others guess what is being drawn. This game enhances creativity, improves communication skills, and often leads to hilarious moments that help build stronger team bonds.

The simplicity and accessibility of Skribbl.io make it an excellent choice for virtual team building. It requires no special equipment or extensive setup, allowing team members to jump in and start playing immediately. This ease of access ensures that all team members, regardless of their technical proficiency, can participate and enjoy the game.

4. Kahoot!

Kahoot! is an interactive quiz platform that can be used to create custom trivia games relevant to your team’s interests or work. It’s a fantastic tool for both educational and entertainment purposes. Teams can compete in real-time, fostering a healthy sense of competition while also allowing team members to learn more about each other and their shared interests.

The platform's versatility in creating tailored quizzes means you can address specific team-building goals, whether it's reinforcing company knowledge or simply having fun. Kahoot!’s user-friendly interface and engaging format help keep participants excited and involved, promoting an enjoyable and educational team-building experience.

5. Minecraft

Minecraft, a sandbox game that allows players to build and explore virtual worlds, can be an excellent tool for team building. Teams can collaborate on building projects, navigate challenges together, and explore vast landscapes. Minecraft encourages creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork, making it a versatile option for virtual team building activities.

The collaborative nature of Minecraft projects helps team members develop a sense of shared purpose and achievement. Working together in a creative, low-pressure environment can strengthen bonds and improve overall team dynamics, making it an ideal game for fostering long-term team cohesion.

6. Virtual Escape Rooms

Virtual escape rooms are interactive games where teams work together to solve puzzles and “escape” from a virtual room. These games require problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication. Numerous companies offer virtual escape room experiences that can be tailored to your team’s size and preferences.

The immersive and challenging nature of virtual escape rooms provides a unique way to build trust and cooperation among team members. Successfully navigating these challenges requires clear communication and collaborative problem-solving, skills that are directly transferable to the workplace.

7. Tabletop Simulator

Tabletop Simulator is a versatile platform that allows teams to play a variety of classic board games in a virtual environment. Games like chess, poker, and popular board games such as "Catan" and "Ticket to Ride" can be played. This platform brings a sense of familiarity and comfort, allowing team members to relax and enjoy time together in a more casual setting.

The wide range of games available on Tabletop Simulator ensures that there is something to appeal to every team member. This variety, combined with the opportunity for casual interaction, helps to build stronger personal connections and a more cohesive team environment.

Conclusion

Incorporating virtual team building games into your remote work strategy can significantly enhance team cohesion and productivity. Whether it’s the strategic deception of "Among Us," the creative fun of "Skribbl.io," or the collaborative problem-solving of virtual escape rooms, there’s a game out there to suit every team’s needs and preferences. Investing time in these activities will pay off in stronger, more connected teams that are better equipped to tackle the challenges of remote work.